SYNAGOGUE
An Israelite in his relationship to the synagogue may be likened
to a branch growing on a
tree. As long as the branch is still attached to the tree, there is hope it
may renew its
vigor under favorable conditions, no matter how withered it may have become.
But once
the living branch falls away, all hope is lost ( Or Yesharim p. 96).
Let all who are employed with the congregation act with them for heaven's sake
(Pirkei
Avot 2:2).
Hillel said: Do not separate yourself from the congregation (Pirkei Avot 2:5).
1. Research the following ritual objects in your synagogue and make a floor plan of the sanctuary and bimah to show where each item would be:
| Aron HaKodesh | Parokhet |
| Rimonim | Yad |
| Ner Tamid | Keter |
| Mahzor | Siddur |
| Humash |
2. Contribute money to buy at least one Siddur or Humash for your synagogue. Dedicate it to the memory of someone special, or in honor of someone.
3. Attend services at a synagogue from a movement of Judaism other than your own. After attending services at your own synagogue, compare, and write the similarities and differences.
4. Help find ways to beautify your synagogue. Examples: buy flowers to adorn the bimah; buy flowers or shrubs for planting; offer your time to help clean, paint, etc. the school area of your synagogue. (Check with the congregation's executive director before doing this!).
5. Meet with one of the synagogue's professionals. Learn more about them and why they chose this challenging but rewarding career. Write their responses. Would you consider a career in the clergy? Why or why not?
6. How is a Torah written? Describe the process as if you were telling a person
who had never even seen a Torah.